Blue Rug Juniper

Blue Rug is the familiar trade name often used for the low, silver-blue selection Juniperus horizontalis ‘Wiltonii’. It forms a dense, trailing evergreen carpet for sunny, well-drained sites and spreads much farther than it rises ([American Conifer Society](https://conifersociety.org/conifers/juniperus-horizontalis-wiltonii/); [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/juniperus-horizontalis-blue-rug/)). ## Landscape Use The American Conifer Society describes ‘Wiltonii’ as compact and very flat, and notes that “Blue Rug” is sometimes used as its trade name. NC State gives a typical size of about 4–6 inches high and 6–8 feet wide, with slow growth. Its broad, close-to-ground spread suits rock gardens, slopes, retaining walls, and the front of sunny beds. Keep space for lateral growth. ## Growing Conditions Choose full sun and sharply drained soil; junipers do poorly where roots remain wet. NC State lists USDA zones 3a–9b and reports drought tolerance once established. The silver-blue evergreen foliage supplies year-round color and texture, while its low profile can help cover exposed soil. Set plants according to their eventual broad spread rather than their small initial size. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and during prolonged dry periods as needed. Check drainage before planting and avoid routine shearing that would remove the trailing outline. Remove dead or damaged branches selectively. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/juniperus-horizontalis-blue-rug/)